Q&A: Demystifying Fertility and Reproductive Health
Summary
Dr. Serena H. Che, a fertility specialist, provided insights into various topics related to fertility and reproductive health. She talked about modern fertility treatments’ success rates, the high cost of semen at fertility clinics, the role and responsibilities of fertility specialists, the egg retrieval process, egg freezing, surrogacy compensation, and the impact of chronic stress on endometriosis and fertility.
Table of Contents
- Success Rates of Modern Fertility Treatments
- Cost of Semen at Fertility Clinics
- Role and Responsibilities of Fertility Specialists
- Reciprocal IVF and Tips for Egg Retrieval Process
- Egg Freezing: From Hormone Injections to Egg Removal
- Geriatric Pregnancy: Why It’s Inaccurate and Insensitive
- Surrogacy: Compensation and Responsibilities
- Checking Fertility Levels before Marriage
- High Fever During Ovulation Week
- The Impact of Chronic Stress on Endometriosis and Fertility
Introduction
The topic of fertility can be anxiety-inducing for many people trying to conceive. With so many myths and misconceptions surrounding the topic, it can be challenging to navigate the information and find reliable sources. Dr. Serena H. Che, a fertility specialist, provides helpful and valuable insights into fertility and reproductive health. In this Q&A session, she answered various questions related to fertility treatments, semen costs at clinics, the role of fertility specialists, egg retrieval process, egg freezing, surrogacy compensation, and chronic stress on endometriosis and fertility.
Success Rates of Modern Fertility Treatments
When asked about the success rates of modern fertility treatments, Dr. Che explained that it depends on various factors like age, diagnosis, and type of fertility treatment. She highlighted that IVF is the most successful fertility treatment with a success rate ranging from 40-70% for women under 35. In her experience, most couples usually conceive within three cycles of IVF treatment. However, some underlying health issues can contribute to lower success rates.
Cost of Semen at Fertility Clinics
The cost of semen at fertility clinics can vary based on various factors like geography, quality, and demand. Dr. Che explained that most semen samples cost between $700-$1000 each, with extra fees for storage and shipping. While the cost seems expensive, many factors contribute to it, such as high-quality hospital-grade equipment, trained staff, testing, and insurance coverage.
Role and Responsibilities of Fertility Specialists
Fertility specialists help men and women experiencing fertility issues with their unique reproductive goals. Fertility specialists are trained medical professionals who provide various services like testing, diagnosis, and treatment options. Dr. Che explained that her role as a fertility specialist involves a detailed evaluation of couples’ medical histories to provide a comprehensive treatment plan. She also shared that her goal is to provide the necessary guidance, support, and resources for individuals to achieve their reproductive goals.
Reciprocal IVF and Tips for Egg Retrieval Process
Reciprocal IVF is a fertility treatment process that allows same-sex female couples to have a biological connection to their child. Dr. Che explained that during reciprocal IVF, a partner’s eggs are retrieved, fertilized with donor sperm, and transferred to the other partner’s uterus. She also provided useful tips to ease the apprehension of the egg retrieval process, such as taking the day off the procedure, using heating pads, and staying hydrated.
Egg Freezing: From Hormone Injections to Egg Removal
Egg freezing is a fertility preservation technique that enables women to freeze their eggs at a younger age to preserve their fertility potential. Dr. Che discussed the hormone injection process used to stimulate egg production and the egg retrieval process. Although egg freezing is a good option for women in their younger reproductive years, men’s sperm quality can decline with age.
Geriatric Pregnancy: Why It’s Inaccurate and Insensitive
Dr. Che elucidated why the term “geriatric pregnancy” is insensitive and inaccurate. The term “geriatric pregnancy” is commonly used when a woman is over the age of 35 and pregnant. Dr. Che explained that the term is offensive and incorrect because it implies that a woman over 35 is old and past her prime reproductive years. She urged viewers to challenge the use of the term and to consider factors like cellular age, genetics, and reproductive potential when considering pregnancy.
Surrogacy: Compensation and Responsibilities
Surrogacy compensation can seem high, but Dr. Che clarified that it is justifiable given the extensive work surrogates undertake. On average, surrogates receive bus fare and expenses, along with $25,000-$35,000 for their compensation, while gestational carriers can charge up to $50,000. Dr. Che discussed the importance of choosing the right surrogate and ensuring that they are emotionally and physically capable of undertaking the process.
Checking Fertility Levels before Marriage
Dr. Che explained that it is always a good idea to check fertility levels before marriage for individuals with underlying health issues in their reproductive systems. However, it’s not mandatory for everyone to check fertility levels before marriage.
High Fever During Ovulation Week
Dr. Che explained that fever can cause a temporary interruption in the ovulation process. She suggested tracking the ovulation for a few months after the fever to ensure that ovulation returns to normal. Dr. Che also highlighted that high fever can impact sperm quality in men, resulting in decreased fertility.
The Impact of Chronic Stress on Endometriosis and Fertility
Chronic stress can impact endometriosis and fertility. Dr. Che shared that stress can contribute to the production of free radicals, which negatively impact the follicles’ quality, reducing the odds of conception. She suggested coping mechanisms like exercise, meditation, and counseling.
Conclusion
Overall, the Q&A session with Dr. Serena H. Che provides invaluable insights into various topics related to fertility and reproductive health. Fertility specialists play an essential role in helping individuals and couples achieve their reproductive goals. It’s always a good idea to consult a doctor to discuss personalized treatment options.
